Pharmacy reform must look at ‘bigger picture’

pharmafile | October 29, 2003 | News story | |   

MPs have criticised a report recommending opening up community pharmacy to greater competition, saying its value had been misunderstood.

David Hinchcliffe, Chairman of the Commons Health Select Committee, said the report by the Office of Fair Trading had ingularly failedto see the "bigger picture"

The OFT recommended that current restrictions on the opening of new pharmacies should be lifted, but many small pharmacies fear that cost-cutting supermarket outlets could drive them out of business.

"It has become clear to us that the recommendations have the potential to make certain pharmacies unviable, potentially leaving some of the most vulnerable communities, who have the greatest health needs and are least able to travel long distances, without a local pharmacy provision, a situation which would be unacceptable," said Mr Hinchcliffe.

Two industry bodies, the Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee and the National Pharmaceutical Association, have welcomed the Committee views.

Trade and Industry Secretary Patricia Hewitt will review all the evidence before deciding on how to reform the sector, but has already indicated that there are "limits to markets" in relation to health services.

 

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